A Gamecube Sequel to Howl Over

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A little secret in Banjo-Tooie hints of a probable Gamecube sequel to a classic Spectrum title.

By IGN Staff

In 1984 developer Rare released the Spectrum title Sabre Wulf and it has remained a cult hit ever since. Now, the classic has returned in Nintendo 64's Banjo-Tooie as a possible teaser for things to come on Gamecube. Wondering what the heck we're talking about? Read on, but be warned -- there is at least one spoiler ahead for those still engrossed in the 64-bit platformer.

Sabre Wulf was a 2D-adventure game created by Rare nearly two decades ago, which featured brightly colored graphics and maze-like environments. The hero of the title, a pith-helmeted explorer with a sword, fought his way through a selection of tropical jungles looking to recover four pieces of a golden amulet. The idea was simple, but intuitive, featuring tight control and enough wild animals and yes, even sleeping hippos, to keep gamers coming back for more. You can see a screenshot of the classic title below, along with a magnified view of its main character.

Now that you know the history of the title, here's why it's important. In world seven of Rare's Banjo-Tooie, Hailfire Peaks, Banjo and Kazooie encounter a frozen explorer -- the same one of the Spectrum title Sabre Wulf. After a bit of puzzle solving, the jungle-ready character -- now of course in full 3D -- is freed from his icy prison and, with a little help from Banjo, able to return back to his tent, which is camped not far off. See the process below.

Once back to his tent, which is marked with the Sabre Wulf logo, Sabre Man decides to take a long nap as he's obviously been through a lot over the years. Just before sleep the character comments, "I wonder what new adventures await me?" and then lies down. In rest he adds, "Zzz... perhaps I'll ride a Dolphin..."

Whether or not this ultimately proves a Sabre Wulf sequel is underway for Gamecube only Rare knows. But it seems more than just a subtle coincidence.

Finally, we think we should note that there is, of course, another possibility entirely to consider, which is that this whole Sabre Wulf business could be related to a Killer Instinct sequel -- long rumored to be underway and long denied by Rare. After all, Sabrewulf is the werewolf-like character featured in the popular N64 3D fighter and this could be Rare's sly way of saying everything without saying anything. After viewing all of the evidence, what do you think is going on? Let us know by sending us an e-mail opinion right here.